Gemstone Shapes & Cuts Explained: Complete Guide to Faceting Styles (2025)

✂️ Gemstone Shapes & Cuts Guide 2025

Complete guide to faceting styles. Expert advice from Queensland specialists.

✂️ What You'll Learn

  • ✓ Popular gemstone shapes
  • ✓ Brilliant vs step cuts
  • ✓ How cut affects value
  • ✓ Best cuts for jewelry types

💎 Popular Shapes

⭕ Round Brilliant

Maximum brilliance
Best for: All gemstones

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💧 Pear

Unique & feminine
Best for: Pendants

Shop Pear →

❓ Cut & Shape Questions

What is the best gemstone cut?

Round brilliant is the most popular and offers maximum sparkle. However, the best cut depends on the gemstone type and jewelry setting. Oval and cushion are excellent for colored stones, while emerald cut suits high-clarity gems.

Does cut affect gemstone value?

Yes! Cut quality affects 20% of gemstone value. Well-cut stones maximize brilliance and color. Poor cuts with windowing or extinction can reduce value by 30-50%.

What is the difference between brilliant and step cut?

Brilliant cuts (round, oval) have triangular facets for maximum sparkle. Step cuts (emerald, baguette) have parallel rectangular facets for clean lines and a hall-of-mirrors effect. Brilliant cuts hide inclusions better.

What cut is best for engagement rings?

Round, oval, and cushion cuts are most popular for engagement rings. They offer excellent brilliance and durability. For sapphires, oval and cushion enhance color beautifully. Browse our engagement ring gemstones.

Can I get custom cuts?

Yes! Custom cutting is available for unique designs. Contact us about custom cutting services for your specific jewelry project. We work with expert lapidaries in Queensland.

✂️ Shop Cut Gemstones

Browse our collection of expertly cut gemstones in all shapes.

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